Back in the saddle at PetSmart means a chance for my new dogs to model. Mimi was afraid of the concrete and paper, so despite her being adorable as a mermaid dog, she was out. Sheba is retired, and never cared much for the photo studio and strobes, but she will wear clothes. Cody was the best option. 

I have been practicing basic training with him for the past few months and he has improved. He will hold a sit-stay for at least 1 minute, and doesn’t seem to mind wearing shirts. Costumes make him nervous, and he wants to hide in the corner like he’s being punished. 

When I brought out the paper, lights and treats, Cody was all in and his fears went away. He gladly sat on the paper and looked directly into the camera. Much to my surprise, Sheba changed her mind about hating having her photo taken! I was shocked. This dog ran, fearing for her life the one time I brought her to a PetSmart photo shoot several years ago. Whenever I bused out my camera for casual photos around the house, she always turned away. 

Bring out the food, and see Cody receiving rewards? She’s all in. Change is possible in those twilight years. Way to go, Sheebs.